Rotational display system

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides a system which integrates unique lighting technologies, switching systems, mounting systems, information delivery systems and power supply systems within a support such as vehicular wheel to provide an advanced, high quality visual display apparatus in various surfaces of rotation. A displayed image may be three dimensional. These technologies, and their many unique applications, provide for a novel and useful series of video display devices that are small, lightweight, efficient and can have the capability of producing a clear, bright, high definition image that is equivalent to that of a modern day TV or high quality computer monitor.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

In accordance with 37 C.F.R 1.76, a claim of priority is included in anApplication Data Sheet filed concurrently herewith. Accordingly, thepresent invention claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), 120, 121,and/or 365(c) as a divisional to U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/778,970, filed Feb. 27, 2013, entitled, “Rotational Display System”,which is a continuation to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/646,422,filed Dec. 23, 2009, entitled, “Rotational Display System”, now U.S.Pat. No. 8,411,108, issued Apr. 2, 2013, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/840,335, filed Aug. 17, 2007,entitled, “Rotational Display System”, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,284,214,issued Oct. 9, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/187,625, filed Jul. 21, 2005, entitled, “Rotational DisplaySystem”, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,271,813, issued Sep. 18, 2007, which claimspriority under 35 USC 119(e) to the U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/589,651, filed Jul. 21, 2004, entitled, “Rotational Image DisplaySystems With Related Applications And Methods,” the entire disclosuresof which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to lighting systems includingautomotive lighting systems. More specifically, the present inventionrelates to the display of visual images and/or display of visualinformation such as pictures, text and full motion video sequences onthe rotating wheels of a vehicle and other display devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Numerous systems for producing visual images and displaying visualinformation such as pictures, text and full motion video sequences weredeveloped over a century ago. One such technology developed utilizesrotating assemblies having intermittently illuminated elements toproduce text or basic shapes. The rotation, combined with rapidlychanging illuminated segments produces a series of flashing frames thatblend to form a recognizable image, or series of images. This effect isbroadly known as persistence of vision and is more specifically referredto as “scanning”. In modern devices that utilize persistence of visiontechnology, electronic information about an image to be displayed isused to synchronize the illumination of individual illuminating elementsat specific positions during the rotation.

There are generally two types of persistence of vision displayscurrently known in the art; cylindrical and planar. A cylindricaldisplay rotates an LED display in a manner that creates images in acylindrical manner, as if the images were on the side of a soda can. Aplanar display rotates the LEDs so that they appear in a flat diskshaped area. Within the planar display, small bright illuminatingelements are typically arranged along an elongated flat member. An axleis positioned at about the mid-point of the flat member, similar to anairplane propeller, and a motor is provided to rotate the member at arelatively high speed. As the flat member rotates, the blur perceived bythe eye makes the rotating member appear to be a flat circle. Thisvirtual circle formed by the spinning member forms a visual image whencolor, brightness and timing of the illuminating sections on the memberare properly synchronized.

One of the earliest examples of image producing systems that utilized arotating member, a series of illuminating devices and a system ofsynchronizing to display an image was developed and patented by PaulGottlieb Nipkow from Germany. Nipkows' system of receiving andreproducing images utilized a selenium photocell and a (rotating)scanning disk. In order to capture an image, his early (1884) systememployed a scanning disk with a single row of holes arranged so theyspiraled inward toward the center of the circle. The disk revolved infront of a light sensitive plate on which a lens formed an image. Eachhole passed across, or “scanned” a ring shaped portion of the image. Theholes traced contiguous concentric circles so that in one revolution ofthe disk, the entire image was scanned, converting a visible image to aseries of electrical signals. A similar rotating disk system was used toreproduce the image that had been scanned. By rapidly switching a seriesof lights aligned with the holes in the rotating disk, synchronizedillumination passed through holes tracing an image with many concentriccircles of light.

Similar systems that followed Nipkow's original designs includedevelopments by J. L. Baird in England and F. Jenkins in the UnitedStates, both of whom successfully demonstrated television systems usingscanning disks in 1926. Such systems produced 60 to 100 scanned lines toprovide recognizable black and white images that were high quality by1926 standards.

Research and development of video display systems that employed rotatingmechanical scanning came to a stop after the nearly simultaneousinvention of electronic scanning systems by Philo T. Farnsworth in 1927and by Vladimir K. Zworykin in 1928. Both the Farnsworth and theZworykin systems of the mid and late 1920's scanned an electron beamback and forth across the inside of a glass cathode ray tube, striking aphosphorescent surface plane, causing images to appear on a glasspicture tube. The electronic scanning picture tube designs developed byboth inventors became the foundations for the cathode ray tube that wasfurther perfected and marketed in the first home television receivers.Significant picture tube improvements were developed by Allen B. DuMontwho increased the reliability, quality and display size of picture tubesduring the 1930's. The same electron scanning technology has evolvedinto the high quality glass picture tubes that are still found inpresent day color (picture tube type) televisions and computer monitors.

The aforementioned inception of electronic picture tubes during the late1920's effectively signaled the end of mechanical rotating image displaysystems by the 1930's. Early picture tubes were essentially sealed, lowmaintenance systems with no mechanical components. Such improvementsrendered rotary image display systems obsolete. The illuminationsystems, propulsion means, synchronization circuits and powerrequirements of rotary mechanical visual display systems made themheavy, bulky, inefficient, unreliable and of marginal value due to lowvideo quality when compared to cathode ray tube visual displays. Thus,cathode ray tubes became the industry standard by the 1930's.Consequently, rotational scanning technology as a means of image displayhad largely been forgotten until very recently with the implementationof a few new products, and with the new technology disclosed herein.Several recent products employ new uses and variations thereof based onilluminated rotational scanning display systems. Likewise, these newerdevelopments define a group of prior art that are related to the new anduseful invention described herein.

One such prior art development is presented in U.S. Publication No.2004/0102223 to Lo. Lo describes a rotating LED device that receivesdata by infrared transmission and then displays such data bysynchronizing the illumination display of a row of rotating LEDs. Thedevice is specifically embodied as both a functional and ornamentaldevice that is used to display incoming telephone caller numbers as acaller ID apparatus, and further displays other alpha-numericinformation such as the time, date and a few pre-programmed seasonalgreetings that are stored in the unit's internal memory. Since therotating member containing the LED array must synchronize the display ofinformation as rapidly as it rotates, Lo describes a system thattransmits infrared signals to a rotating illuminating member, from aninfrared transmitter located in the stationary base unit. Thiseffectively separates the actual rotating member and LED array from itssupport circuits that need not rotate in order to produce a visualimage. The infrared system described provides a wireless path by whichinformation to be displayed is beamed directly to a small infraredreceiver that is part of the rotating display system. This designminimizes the amount of parts that must rotate, thus minimizingrotational mass, minimizing the weight of moving parts. However, becausethe device derives both a positional reference point and dataconcurrently as a predetermined point on the rotating arm passes theinfrared sender, the amount of data that can be transferred is verylimited.

Thus, Lo's device is limited to displaying alpha-numeric data, caller IDinformation, clock settings and a series of pre-determined greetingsthrough a telephone interface. Lo's design does not disclose hardware,systems, methods or other provisions capable of providing motion picturesequences that are user selected, or supplied through an external sourcesuch as a digital media system, DVD, hard drive or other data storagedevice. Moreover, like the other existing prior art, the system ismonochromatic, and thus has support circuitry that limits data and imagedisplay throughput to the monochromatic color output of the includeddisplay devices. Even if the LED array disclosed on the device were mademulti colored for ornamental purposes, the internal processing system isonly designed to synchronize the on/off LED array switching to displayalpha numeric data and a few low resolution symbols. Thus, its hardwareand software cannot support streaming color video to display life likecolor images or color full motion video since the system is not wiredand programmed to support true color synchronized switching or relateddata throughput.

Another spinning illuminated novelty device with synchronized lightsources is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,575,585 to Nelson, et al. Thissystem is essentially a small, portable, battery operated amusementdevice that spins an array of lights. A small control circuit is locatedon the rotating member, proximal to the light array. The control circuitcontains predetermined embedded ornamental patterns that cause the lightarray to illuminate in a predetermined pattern, synchronous to theirspeed. This causes an ornamental lighted display of shapes, colors,images or text to appear, depending on the predetermined pattern dataintegral to the control circuit. The embodiment shown uses a rotatingcontact system, such as a slip-ring style contact, to directly energizea control circuit and lights on the moving blades. This allows thestationary battery pack to directly connect its power wires to theillumination system and illumination control circuit on the movingrotor.

Because the system described by Chernick is primarily designed to be avery affordable children's toy, it is not capable of the advancedrequirements necessary to display true color synchronized switching. Thecontrol circuit described is primarily a low cost pre-programmed devicethat displays a few visual patterns of varying colors. Userselectability of pre-programmed patterns is not present, to keepproduction cost low, and minimize user interface parts. Therefore, uponturning the toy on, illumination patterns are generated by the digitalcontroller in a predetermined manner. The user does not select frompredetermined groups of images or messages to be displayed. Thus, thepreferred embodiment shows only a simple on/off hardwired switch as theonly human interface device present.

U.S. Publication No. 2004/0105256 to Jones discloses virtual colorgenerating windmills, decorative spinners, and ornamental devicespowered by solar or wind energy. Although very similar in ornamentalvalue to the above mentioned illuminating toy by Chernick, the windmillsdisclosed by Jones utilize wind or solar energy to power integratedillumination systems that add to the visual interest of the windmill orsimilar outdoor ornament. In operation, as the windmill turns, sets ofsmall LEDs scan rotational patterns of light creating an ornamentaleffect. While this system employs rotational scanning, images displayedcontain little or no parameters for user selectability, and areincapable of displaying life like color images or color full motionvideo. Another device which employs rotational image display is theI-Top, a small, portable device for gaming and amusement. The I-Top byIrwin Toys (I-Toys) is a pocket sized, battery operated spinning topwith an integrated array of 8 LEDs. Using a button switch on the I-top,a user can select from a series of pre-programmed games that areintegral to the unit's controller. Once the user selects a game, thenspins the I-Top, the toy displays scores, messages and animationsthrough its array of LEDs that form a virtual screen while spinning. Astable display image is accomplished by using a built in magneticcompass that always knows the instantaneous position of the top, andsynchronizes the illumination display output flashes for each LEDaccordingly based on rotational position.

Due to the compass based position sensor disposed inside the I-Top, thebeginning point of any chain of words on the I-Top is always pointing toEarth's magnetic North. Hence, magnetic north is used as a reference forthe LED synchronization, and to calibrate in which direction or positionthe output text should appear.

While compass based positional synchronization works very well fordevices which rotate in a horizontal plane, a traditional compass basedsystem will not provide adequate positional synchronization for deviceswhich rotate in vertical or near vertical planes. The internal compasscan become confused if the azimuth or angular orientation of itsintended operational plane is shifted to a degree at which it cannotproperly track the Earth's magnetic field. In addition, proximity tovarious metals, magnetic fields, and radio frequency interference fromcellular phones, vehicle electronics and other high frequency sourcesalso interferes with compass function via direct magnetic fielddistortion or by subsequent inductive jamming of sensitive compasssupport circuitry. This confuses positional synchronization, and thuswould corrupt and distort the images output on the illuminated array,making the device unsuitable for use in conjunction with vehicles and/orvehicle wheels.

Other devices which utilize scanning technology may be found on theinternet. These devices are commonly known online as “propeller clocks.”The name “propeller clock” is a slang term that describes manypersistence of vision displays that arose as a niche hobby after RobertBlick created what is presumed to be the first persistence of vision LEDdisplay that displayed a clock face. The clock was comprised of arotating LED array that spun much like an airplane propeller, thusinitiating the term “propeller clock” that has become a generic name formany similar rotationally scanned devices. More specifically, most ofthese devices take the form of a rotating array of LEDs, a motor systemto power the rotation, a system of delivering power to the motor androtating LEDs, and a system to synchronously energize the LEDs, thusallowing the rotating array to visually display one or more desirablepatterns.

In general, this body of prior art addresses and solves some of thetechnical challenges that surround all rotational displays. Thesetechnical challenges include construction of rotating displays,selection of appropriate high brightness LEDs for monochromaticdisplays, proper balance and vibration control of rotating displays,methods of delivering reliable electrical power to the rotating portionof displays, methods and hardware for position sensing on the display,data delivery for displaying images on rotating arrays, programmableintegrated circuit (PIC) programming and related costs.

While all of the prior art devices are capable of providing relativelysimple displays, none of the prior art devices are capable of providingtrue color or streaming video. In addition, all of the prior art devicesdisplay images directly from their plane of rotation. That is, thedevices twist the (normally horizontal) ground plane of the image ortext around the axis of rotation causing, text, numbers and animationsto be displayed and scrolled in a circular pattern along an artificialbottom line. This causes the user to read text that bends around thecircle of rotation, as opposed to across the circle of rotation. Thisdesign feature is common to the prior art and is a result of a notdefining a real horizontal reference within the actual programming code,data processes and internal feedback loops that process and ultimatelysynchronize output data to illuminate sections of a rotational display.Not defining a real visual ground plane reference for display purposes,and further not correlating a visual display ground plane with thehorizon or actual ground, eliminates related programming complexitiesand internal algorithms. The non-presence of this feature in the priorart allows for the use of a simple, low cost microprocessor controllerswith limited complexity. However, the devices can be difficult to readand render the possibility of full motion video displays across theentire virtual disk impossible.

Still yet, the geometry of all prior planar display devices has someobject or component mounted at the center of the circle of rotation thatblocks the presence of illuminating elements. Thus, the total displayarea that could potentially produce an illuminated image is hindered bya “hole” or circular blank spot at the middle of the circle. Thisgeometric limitation, which also applies to and is later addressed bythe invention disclosed herein, provides another reason why text andimages are displayed in a manner to twist around the center of rotation.Simply put, if the center does not have illumination hardware, any imageprogrammed to intersect the center of the circle would not displayproperly.

This same limitation also affected the quality of early scanning imagesystems, like those of Nipkow and Baird. It is also of importance tomention that the aforementioned display systems of the late 1800s andearly 1900s, in many cases, did not utilize the full optical range oftheir scanning disks for this very reason. Instead, a dark coloredshield would cover most of the scanning disk displays, and a smallwindow cut in the shield would usually frame a small area toward theoutside of the disk, where linear scanning velocities were the greatest.Through the window, a small portion of the scanning disk was visible,and the image or television program was synchronized to appear in thiswindow. The dark colored shield that covered the majority of thescanning disk essentially prevented the observer from viewing areas thatwere optically distorted or incapable of displaying visual imagery, aswas the axis of rotation and the areas proximal thereto.

Further yet, the prior art does not disclose or suggest a rotationaldisplay device which operates in conjunction with a motor vehicle. Nordoes the prior art disclose any of the numerous variations andenhancements to wheel mounted display systems that are described hereinin regards to the present invention.

Accordingly, it is a primary objective of the instant invention toprovide a high quality rotational display apparatus in combination witha display device such as a vehicular wheel to provide ornamental andfunctional displays.

It is a further objective of the instant invention to provide arotational display apparatus having the capability of producing a truecolor images that are substantially equivalent to that of a modern dayTV or high quality computer monitor.

It is yet another objective of the instant invention to provide arotational display apparatus that is capable of displaying bothcylindrical and planar type displays in a single apparatus.

It is a still further objective of the instant invention to provide arotational display apparatus which extends the illuminating elements tothe center of the display device such as a wheel to allowcenter-crossing of images.

Still yet another objective of the instant invention is to provide arotational display apparatus in combination with a vehicular wheelcapable of displaying text and images across a linear bottom line.

Yet another objective of the instant invention is to provide arotational display apparatus in combination with a display device suchas a vehicular wheel capable of providing virtual headlight, tail light,brake light, and directional signals.

Accordingly, it is a primary objective of the instant invention toprovide a panel display device such as a fold out communication devicewith a rotational scanning display apparatus to provide messagecommunication and image displays.

It is a further objective of the instant invention to provide a paneldisplay device having the capability of producing a true color scannedimages.

It is a still further objective of the instant invention to provide apanel display device which extends the illuminating elements to allowcenter-crossing of images.

It is a still further objective of the instant invention to provide adisplay device with a rotational scanning display apparatus to providemessage communication and image displays in three dimensions.

Other objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent fromthe following description taken in conjunction with any accompanyingdrawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example,certain embodiments of this invention. Any drawings contained hereinconstitute a part of this specification and include exemplaryembodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects andfeatures thereof.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides a system which integrates unique lightingtechnologies, switching systems, mounting systems, information deliverysystems and power supply systems to provide a display device such as avehicular wheel, greeting card and popup book to provide an advanced,high quality visual display apparatus. These technologies, and theirmany unique applications, provide for a novel and useful series of videodisplay devices that are small, lightweight, efficient and have thecapability of producing a clear, bright, high definition image that isequivalent to that of a modern day TV or high quality computer monitor.Further applications of the disclosed technologies allow theinstallation of compact rotary video displays in numerous applicationswhere rotary display devices are equipped with the disclosedtechnologies to display visual images, videos and text while rotating.The compact, energy efficient, high optical quality technology disclosedherein is relatively inexpensive to mass produce and can be applied tomany unusual locations. The primary application for rotational scanningsystems discussed herein is an electronically controlled display systemdisposed upon or made integral to a motor vehicle wheel with bothornamental and functional applications. The compact, energy efficient,high optical quality technology disclosed herein is relativelyinexpensive to mass produce and can be applied to many forms of displaydevices such as vehicle wheels, greeting cards, popup books, regularbooks, magazines and the like.

The system is preferably configured for connection to displayinformation from a portable or stationary computing device that includeshardware and/or software, to provide, import, manipulate, store andselectively display visual information of the user's choice. Suchdevices may include, but should not be limited to, palm sized computingdevices, portable video game systems, laptop computers, cellular phones,audio systems, navigation systems, vehicle electronics, mobile videosystems, multi-function displays or other devices that typically employa visual display.

The computing device transfers information regarding the data to bedisplayed to a rotatable assembly which includes a controller and anilluminating assembly. The illuminating assembly includes a plurality ofilluminating elements. The illuminating elements are synchronized by thecontroller to light-up specific elements of the assembly at specifictimes and/or positions during rotation. This causes the rotatableassembly to display predetermined image(s), text, animations or othervisual information that is pre-loaded, programmed or otherwise providedto the controller from the computing device.

One embodiment of the device combines multiple synchronized illuminatingassemblies that share a common axis of rotation, but are positioned atdifferent angles with respect to the axis, to provide more than oneimage plane or more than one angle or set of angles for light emissiondirection. Such an arrangement, when synchronized to minimizeinterference and separate images in a predetermined sequence, provides athree dimensional image. The device may also provide a drive to moveilluminating assemblies about multiple axes of rotation to provide athree dimensional image.

In further embodiments the instant invention may be utilized for use asa display system in rough service environments such as on helicoptermain blades, tail rotors, impellers, turbines, machine tools or rotatingcomponents in manufacturing systems and engines.

The system is preferably configured for connection to receive imagedisplay information from a portable or stationary computing device thatincludes hardware and/or software, to provide, import, manipulate, storeand selectively display visual information of the user's choice. Suchcomputing devices may include, but should not be limited to, palm sizedcomputing devices, portable video game systems, laptop computers,cellular phones, audio systems, navigation systems, vehicle electronics,mobile video systems, multi-function displays or other devices thattypically employ a visual display. The user may effect the data transferor a sales person at a store may effect the data transfer to provide apersonalized message in the displayed image(s).

The computing device transfers information regarding the data to bedisplayed to a rotatable assembly which includes a controller and anilluminating assembly. The illuminating assembly includes a plurality ofilluminating elements. The illuminating elements are synchronized by thecontroller to light-up specific elements of the assembly at specifictimes and/or positions during rotation. This causes the rotatableassembly to display predetermined image(s), text, animations or othervisual information that is pre-loaded, programmed or otherwise providedto the controller from the computing device.

One embodiment of the device combines multiple synchronized illuminatingassemblies that share a common axis of rotation, but are positioned atdifferent angles with respect to the axis, to provide more than oneimage plane or more than one angle or set of angles for light emissiondirection. Such an arrangement, when synchronized to minimizeinterference and separate images in a predetermined sequence, provides athree dimensional image.

The invention also involves the provision of a persistence of visionsystem capable of producing a three dimensional image that can be eitherstill or animated. It can utilize an illumination assembly that willmove about a plurality of different axes of rotation.

The invention further involves the provision of a vision system that canbe used in a panel type device, such as a greeting card, picture frameor popup book to display a planar or cylindrical image. The visionsystem may also have an illumination assembly configured to produce athree dimensional image.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle illustrating the instantinvention in operation upon a rotating motor vehicle wheel;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1 illustratingone embodiment of the instant invention utilizing an LED illuminatingassembly in conjunction with a motor vehicle wheel;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a motor vehicle wheel illustrating oneembodiment of the rotating assembly of the instant invention forproducing cylindrical or angular images;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a motor vehicle wheel illustrating oneembodiment of the instant invention utilizing and LCD illuminatingassembly;

FIG. 5 is a schematic of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view illustrating one means fordelivering power to the rotatable assembly;

FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view illustrating one means fordelivering power to the rotatable assembly;

FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view illustrating one means fordelivering power to the rotatable assembly;

FIG. 10 is a broken partial perspective view illustrating one means fordelivering power to the rotatable assembly;

FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view illustrating the motor vehiclewheel of FIG. 3 in operation;

FIG. 12 is a simplified schematic view of a display system fordisplaying illuminated images in three dimensions;

FIG. 13 is a front elevation simplified schematic view of the displaysystem of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a side elevation simplified schematic view of the displaysystem of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a top plan simplified schematic view of the display system ofFIG. 12;

FIG. 16 is a perspective schematic view of the display system of FIG. 12illustrating two axes of rotation;

FIG. 17 is a schematic view of the display system and the control anddrive components;

FIG. 18 is a schematic view of one form of the display systemillustrating its use to show a global position;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the display system showing a displayedimage in 3-D;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the display system linked to an audiosystem such as a broadcast radio station;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a panel communication device in theform of a two panel greeting card;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a greeting card similar to that shownin FIG. 21 but using a plurality image creating illuminating assemblies;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a greeting card as seen in FIG. 21, buthaving the image illuminating assembly in a stopped condition;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a greeting card but using analternative mounting of illuminating assemblies;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a greeting card showing a pair ofimages as displayed each in a plane generally parallel to a respectivedisplay panel;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of two alternative illuminatingassemblies;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating greeting card with arotatable scanning assembly that displays an image on a surface ofrotation generally normal to the plane of rotation of the rotatableassembly;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a greeting card with portions brokenaway to illustrate the mounting of various parts to the card;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a panelcommunication device in the form of a popup book; and

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of apanel communication device in the form of a free standing picture frame.

Like numbers used throughout the figures represent like and or similarparts and/or construction.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in variousforms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be describeda presently preferred embodiment with the understanding that the presentdisclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention andis not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodimentsillustrated.

Referring to FIGS. 1-10, various embodiments of the instant inventionare illustrated as being incorporated into the wheels of a motor vehicle10. In general, the disclosed systems are rotational display systems 12that display user selectable visual information such as images, text,numbers, symbols, animations, videos and the like upon the wheel of avehicle during rotation thereof. It is important to note that thecomponent description below is a general way to explain the system andits' basic components. Given modern technology, many or all of thecomponents could be combined or split in many ways and thus should notbe limited to the specific component descriptions included herein. Thegeneral components of the system include a computer 14, a rotatableassembly 24, and a means of power delivery 20 to the rotatable assembly.

The computer 14 provides for storage and recall of images which arewirelessly transferred to the rotatable assembly 24 which includes acontroller 16 and an illuminating assembly 18 (FIGS. 5-6). The computer14 is a microprocessor type device that allows users to upload and storeimages, videos, logos, text, and the like by accepting various softwarefile formats which may include, but should not be limited to: JPEG, BMP,AVI, Quicktime and the like. The computer may also accept popularhardware methods of transferring stored digital information which mayinclude, but should not be limited to: CDs, DVDs, various flash memorycards, USB ports, wireless connections, optical connections, IR portsand the like. The computer provides a high level of user selectivity andmay include enhancements such as touch screens, digital pads, keyboardsand suitable combinations thereof, all well known in the art, whichallow a user to select which images or videos should be displayed on therotational display system 12 during operation thereof.

The computer 14 electrically communicates with the rotatable assemblyvia the controller 16. The controller is preferably positioned withinthe rotatable assembly, illustrated herein as a motor vehicle wheel 26.The controller includes circuitry suitable to accept communications fromthe computer via radio, as shown in FIG. 5 or optical transmission, asshown in FIG. 6. A most preferred embodiment utilizes wireless microtransmitters and receivers, these devices are readily available fromFreescale Semiconductor Inc. Of Austin, Texas and include integratedcircuits that can at least receive data from the computer as may beutilized to provide two-way communication between the computer and thereceiver. The controller also includes circuitry capable ofsynchronously illuminating the illuminating elements 22 of theilluminating assembly 18, thus producing a visual output. The specifichardware and/or software utilized within the controller will vary basedupon the type, size and quantity of illuminating elements, as well asthe rotational speed of the rotatable assembly, and the complexity oftext, numbers, images or animations to be displayed through therotatable assembly 18. The primary job of the controller is to receiveinformation regarding the desired display from the computer andsynchronously energize individual illuminating elements, clusters orpixels within the illuminating assembly 18 to produce one or morepredetermined images. In order to properly synchronize the illuminatingelements 22 for illumination at specific positions within the rotationof the illuminating assembly 18, the controller must know its positionwith respect to a predetermined point within the rotation. Thus, thecontroller 16 includes a means of synchronization that perceives thepassing of one or more positions during rotation of the rotatableassembly 24. The simplicity, complexity or overall effectiveness of anyposition sensing apparatus within the controller may vary depending onthe application. Examples of readily available position sensing devicesinclude, but should not be limited to: gyroscopes, magnetic sensors,Hall Effect sensors, lasers, infrared devices, radio-frequency devices,optical/reflective tachometers, laser tachometers, mechanical position(rotary) encoders, electromagnetic sensors, accelerometers, displacementsensors and suitable combinations thereof. In addition, ProgrammableLogic Control “PLC” technologies from various industrial automationsystems, machinery and robotics utilize numerous varieties of advanced,miniature, rugged, programmable position sensing systems. These PLCposition sensing systems and components have become standard, low cost,readily available and highly reliable within industrial automation andmanufacturing technologies. Many miniature PLC components now featuresophisticated integrated memory and internal computing power sufficientto integrate many functions such as computing, control, sensing,feedback, programming and visual display output on one single compactrugged electrical device that can be programmed for unique applications.Computer Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs) and Field Programmable GateArrays (FPGAs) such as those offered by Xilink and Altera semiconductorcompanies, both of San Jose, Calif., can be employed as sophisticatedmulti-input PLC position sensing and control systems. Similar miniatureelectronic hardware devices such as micro-scale radio transmitters likethose offered by Analog Devices Inc of Norwood, Mass., coupled withminiature multi-axis position sensors such as those offered by HoneywellSSEC of Plymouth, Minn. allow a suitable PLC system to utilize wirelesstechnologies for the acquisition, processing and sharing of positionsensing data within a rotational display system. Various PLC systems andcomponents provide yet another option for reliable rotational displaysynchronization hardware that are rugged and designed to operate in avariety of physically and electrically demanding environments such aswithin the wheel of a motor vehicle. Such systems and associated subcomponents are available from Omron of Kyoto, Japan and SiliconLaboratories of Austin, Texas.

The illuminating assembly 18 can have numerous inherent variations insize, length and resolution (resolution or definition is the number ofactively switchable or addressable illuminating elements per unit ofarea; the higher number indicates that a higher quality image can bedisplayed). The illuminating assembly can also be made from manydifferent illuminating elements which may include, but should not belimited to: light emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light emitting diodes(OLEDs), electroluminescent strips (ELs), liquid crystal displays(LCDs), thin film transistor liquid crystal displays (TFTs), plasmadisplays, small light bulbs or suitable combinations thereof, and may beused to form an appropriate display for predetermined applications.Regardless of the type of light generating instruments or apparatusused, individual elements of the illuminating assembly must becontrollable to appropriately illuminate at predetermined positionsduring rotation, thus forming a predetermined image. Each choice ofilluminating element has different characteristics, advantages anddisadvantages. LEDs for example, are bright, efficient and durable, andcan be surface mounted on a thin PC board with supporting electronicsubsystems, all at a very low cost. A strip of color LCDs, such as thematerial used on laptop computer screens, boasts very high resolutionand the ability to display life-like portrait quality pictures whilerotating. LCDs derive their active light emitting elements from thecontrolled synchronization of individual pixels or groups of pixelsthat, viewed together, form an integral (somewhat virtual, softwarecontrolled) array of illuminating elements. Thus, the general definitionof an illuminating assembly 18 is understood to apply to devices wherelight emitting elements 22 are connected and integral at a high density,miniature, microscopic or molecular level, such as the illuminatingelements or combinations of the illuminating elements described above.

Referring to FIGS. 5-10 various means of delivering power 20 to therotating assembly 24 are illustrated. Regardless of the specificconstruction of the controller, position sensors, illuminatingassemblies, interfaces, etc. there are many alternative and viableoptions for power delivery means that can provide adequate electricalpower to the rotatable assembly that may be partially present on themoving (rotating) portion of the system. Batteries, solar panels,rechargeable systems and hardwired systems that employ slip-ringcontacts or electrical commutator and brush assemblies are examples ofsome power delivery means that are well known in the art. Within thepreferred embodiment a split high frequency transformer 36 is utilized.In this embodiment, the primary coil 38, in electrical communicationwith the vehicle battery, remains fixed to the motor vehicle 10, and thesecondary coil 40 is integrated into the moving portion of the rotatableassembly 24, in this case the vehicle wheel 26. Other options mayinclude various parasitic power generators that use micro magneticassemblies or piezo electric devices to produce power from mechanicalvibrations, harmonics or centrifugal forces (not shown). Further systemscould employ a generator located inside a hub and axle assembly as shownin FIG. 10, or a free spinning generator that uses a counterweight tostabilize one part of a free spinning generator while the other partrotates with a rotatable member connected to, or part of theilluminating assembly (much like a Rolex perpetual watch windingmechanism that uses an internal rotatable counterweight to self wind anenergy storage spring, but on a larger scale and adapted to generateelectric power).

Referring to FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of the instant inventionis illustrated wherein a portion of the motor vehicle's drive-lineand/or suspension 30 (FIG. 7) is used to transfer a magnetic field of atransformer from a fixed part of the motor vehicle to a secondarytransformer coil 28 and subsequent power circuit integral to therotating wheel. Within this embodiment the vehicle hub assembly, axle,wheel bearings, etc. act as a ferrous core for an electrical transformerto deliver power to the rotating wheel assembly.

Referring to FIGS. 1-11, the specific applications and specific uses ofthe rotary display system ultimately determine which variations of manypossible system architectures will be employed. Likewise, the specificapplications desired by the user will determine what specific visualimages, text, animations or combinations are to be displayed.Consequently, specific details of the user's application will alsodetermine system parameters, such as what colors, brightness, arraysize, array quantity, control systems, power supplies should be used tobest match the display system design to its intended application. Forexample, as it is an object of the instant invention to displaylife-like images on a rotational display system without bending thehorizontal ground plane around the axis of the display system, it isnecessary to understand the operation of the prior art systems that wrapthe horizontal plane around the axis of rotation. Within the prior artimages or text to be displayed are scanned or programmed in a linearmanner, much like a desktop scanner or photocopier moves a lighted baracross an image using a flat rectangular surface plane. At each point(pixel or dot) in the plane that contains the image or text to bedisplayed a digital processor assigns the corresponding X and Ycoordinates of each point converting it into a simple data chain of Xand Y coordinates. Essentially, the image to be displayed has each ofits points graphed like it was to be reproduced on a rectangular, flatplanar sheet of graph paper. The data chain, like a bit map image, isthen fed into the controller that illuminates the lighted portions of arotating display.

Y represents the height position of a point to be displayed whereas Xrepresents the horizontal position of a point to be displayed.Therefore, out of all XY coordinate pairs that form the image, thelowest Y coordinate is assigned to be displayed on the illuminatingsection closest to the axis of rotation and the highest Y coordinate isassigned to the illuminating section of the display that is closest tothe perimeter.

The points on the X axis (that each pair with a respective Y coordinate)are assigned to an arbitrary predetermined starting and stopping pointthat correspond with one 360 degree rotation of the circular displaysystem. In essence, the lowest X value is assigned to the degreeposition where the image begins in the rotational sweep and the highestX coordinate is assigned to the degree position where the image ends. Inessence, an XY coordinate system is converted to display Y coordinates(as illuminated sections) only after the X coordinate set has beenconverted to represent angular positions on a circular system.

This allows illuminating portions of the display that correspond to theY coordinates to illuminate at the instant that the illuminating displayline crosses each point of rotation that corresponds to the matching Xcoordinates.

Likewise, this simple system easily converts text, images and othervisuals to work properly on a rotational display by reassigning the Xcoordinate set to appropriate angular positions on the circle, whileallowing the Y coordinate set to control which sections of theilluminating display are switched on or off, as it rotates past eachpoint X. This also allows for easy positioning and orientation of animage to be displayed. For example, if a circle had its top most pointdefined as zero degrees and its bottom most point defined at 180degrees, assuming that the circular scanning display apparatus moved ina clockwise direction, one could position an image or text on the righthalf of the circle by defining the lowest X value as zero degrees andthe highest X value at 180 degrees. If one wished to further compressthe text or image into the upper right quarter of the circle, one wouldassign the lowest X value to zero degrees and the highest X value to 90degrees.

This aforementioned example of how a display scrolls images and textaround a circle is exemplary only for a monochromatic system. If such asystem were to have true color display capacities, it would essentiallybe the exact same example, in triplicate with one chain of XYcoordinates for each of the primary colors to be output to a true colorcapable display.

In essence, the image to be scanned or digitally converted to binarydata would be converted to XY coordinates just as described above, withone XY coordinate set for each color to be electronically mixed. Inessence, the three coordinate data sets would be (Xred, Yred); (Xblue,Yblue) and (Xgreen, Ygreen). Likewise three separate data sets wouldhave to be processed simultaneously in real time, fully synchronized,starting and ending at the same time without any relative processingdelays between the red, blue or green data sets.

Consequently, the hardware would have to support triplicate electronicprocessing of each set and the rotational display system would alsorequire tri-color separately . addressable illumination sections tovisually output the data. Although the electronic hardware and softwareis readily available to accomplish this, no such devices have yet beencreated. In application, it would be ideal to utilize micro sizedtri-color LEDs due to their fast switching times, nearly instantaneousluminous rise and fall times, high brightness, high efficiency andpoint-source geometry. Likewise, one slim rotating line of such tiny,tri-color high brightness LEDs would effectively mix the primary colorsat the same visual point, assuring that red, blue and green color outputall occur at the same rotational angle. This would create a low cost,high quality rotational output capable of true color display.

If separate red, blue and green illumination sections are located atdifferent points on a rotational display, output timing for each colormust be appropriately shifted to maintain persistence of vision, byproperly tricking the human eye into perceiving that all three colorsare appearing to produce a seamless, true color image, by originatingeach of the primary colors from the same perceived location(s) insynchronous timing.

Take, for example, three sets of micro LEDs forming addressableillumination lines extending from about the axis to the perimeter of arotational display system. The red LED line is arbitrarily located atthe zero degree (straight up) position. The blue is at 10 degrees andthe green is at 20 degrees, respectively, proceeding clockwise aroundthe circle. Due to the relative positions, the light discharge positionsfor each primary color would need to be shifted. In essence, the greenbar would switch it's green segments on t to represent a predeterminedportion of an image to be displayed. We can call this arbitrary portionof an image “frame 1”. So, the green bar would illuminate appropriatesections correlated to frame 1 at the 20 degree position in therotation. However, the blue and red bards would have to wait until theyare passing the 20 degree position to display their luminous patternsassociated with frame 1. In essence, the red bar would require a shiftin it's X coordinate set to add 20 degrees clockwise to it's luminousdischarge timing for each frame. The blue bar would require a 10 degreeforward advance on luminous discharge timing. The green would require azero degree forward advance, meaning that the green has no shift in Xcoordinates (angular position) for a given frame; or simply put, thegreen becomes the arbitrary reference point that the other colors arereferenced against the coordinate timing.

In order for any rotational display system, monochromatic or true color,to display an image across the entire circular face of a rotationaldisplay apparatus, the X and Y coordinates that define the image to bedisplayed in Cartesian terms must simply be converted to polarcoordinates. In short, any Cartesian XY coordinate is subject to thePythagorean theorem that models any XY coordinate as a triangle toderive the hypotenuse, or the distances from the center of the circle.In this case, the hypotenuse for a particular coordinate now defines thedistances from the axis of rotation where a point, pixel or LED mustilluminate at a predetermined angle to display a predetermined frame ofvisual output. The angle correlated to this distance is found by usingthe tangent function, thus indicating the numerical angle that wouldcorrelate the rotational position of the display. With the rotationangle and distance from the center known for any set of points thatcombine to define an image, it is possible to display an image or textacross the full face of the circle. Likewise, any such image to bedisplayed should have its coordinate sets electronically stored in polarform.

It is also important to note that software or hardware used to convert aCartesian image to an identical image using polar coordinates shouldemploy software or interfacing to properly center the zero point of theCartesian system across the approximate center of the image before polarconversion. Failure to do this, depending on the specifics of thesoftware developed for the rotational display, may cause an image todisplay off center as a result of positive integer values for anyCartesian XY coordinate set being converted to indicate a polarcoordinate image in only one quadrant of a circle. Likewise, bothhardware and software interfaces should have proper calibration featuresto properly center, tilt and properly adjust any displayed images.

Consequently, the process by which to convert digital images, text andfull motion video to polar coordination for full face rotational displayis not difficult. It does however require more computer programming, andsubsequently more memory that an equivalent image that is displayed inwrap around mode as opposed to full face display mode. In addition, thismode is also capable of full color display if the same conversion anddata processes are used for three primary colors, as described prior tobe output to a capable full color rotational display device.

For example, a police vehicle 10 (FIG. 11) or ambulance may use therotational display 12 to say “police” in a forward and/or side directionor to serve as extra emergency flashers. A large truck can display a“wide load” image on the wheel display.

A passenger car or truck can use the display as a system of virtualbrake lights, directional signals, extra headlights, hazard flashers,etc. via a connection to the vehicle electric system. Such a systemwould use the vehicle's electric system to initiate the display of aflashing arrow image on the right wheels when the driver activates theright turn signal.

FIGS. 3 and 11 show unique shaped rotational display systems that haveilluminating element assemblies shaped to allow virtual brake-lightsthat only shine backward from the rear wheels, virtual headlights thatonly shine forward, and directional signals that are viewable from manyangles.

All aspects of the above described rotational display system can bemanufactured with infinite variety. At the least expensive end of thespectrum of product offerings, an aftermarket stick-on LED strippre-programmed with a graphic or ornamental design can be applied to awheel with no user interface needed. An inexpensive stick-on thin PCboard type car novelty could provide quick installation at low cost. Aproduct one step higher may have a single color or multicoloraftermarket LED display strip that can be attached to the wheel, with aninexpensive battery powered human interface (like a small “credit card”sized remote control, similar to remotes included with aftermarket carstereos, located in the car) to select between a few pre-programmedgraphics. More expensive models would progressively incorporate moresophisticated controllers with more advanced connectivity to externalsoftware image sources. Likewise, more expensive systems would likelyincorporate brighter, higher resolution LED displays with moresubstantial power delivery and data delivery systems at and around thevehicle wheel assemblies. The best quality systems would supporttrue-color capability or at least highly synchronized multi-colorcapabilities to display a variety of images in life like color or nearlife like color. The most versatile variations of the product would havemultiple illuminating assemblies and LED clusters at various positionson the wheel at one or more angles, and more complex software to supporttheir proper light discharge timing. As shown in the drawings, the LEDarrays (or any light producing arrays or clusters thereof) can becontoured and positioned to project light from the rims in many specificorientations. Light projecting toward the front of the vehicle can bemade into a virtual supplemental headlight, fog light, driving light orother street legal form of forward illumination. The same arrays thatpass rearward facing directions as the wheels rotate can be turned intovirtual brake lights. The combination of various wheel mounted arraysand light clusters can be used as highly visible street legaldirectional signals with the use of standard DOT approved amber color.Likewise, sophisticated displays that utilize multiple illuminationassemblies, or ones directed at various angles may require software suchas a plug and play style driver that identifies the wheel size,illuminating assembly positions, illuminating element colors andmulti-axis illuminating assembly angles to the control system in thevehicle to allow proper display synchronization to produce clear andproperly positioned images. Likewise, a multitude of software programswould provide a high degree of variety in selecting both functional andornamental images for the vehicle wheels.

Since a traditional motor vehicle wheel or rim will not display an imagewhile it is rotating, this is a limitation of the disclosed invention.However, if one embodiment of the disclosed system utilizes the rims asdirectional signals, or hazard flashers, on board hardware or softwarecould allow all appropriately colored LEDs to illuminate or flashappropriately while the wheel is stopped, thus allowing an observer tosee proper directional signals or hazard flashers disposed on the wheel.The stopped wheel would not be able to display a graphic while stopped(such as a picture of a flashing yellow arrow indicating a directionalsignal). However, a wheel-at-stop default sequence could take advantageof all appropriately colored LEDs while the wheel is stopped by usingthem for directional or hazard lights.

One alternative embodiment of the instant invention utilizes motorvehicle wheels which include “Spinners.” Spinners is a slang term forfreewheel rotating ornaments that are added to vehicle rims such asthose disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,290,094 and 6,663,187 the contentsof which are incorporated herein in their entirety. These ornaments aretypically placed on custom luxury cars and SUVs. They allow a portion ofthe vehicle wheel to continue turning while the car is temporarilystopped or slowed. A combination which includes spinners with theinstant invention leads to a naturally advantageous combination. Thiswould allow the continuous use of rotational display system for videosor graphics such as logos, ornaments, directional signals, brake lights,virtual headlights, etc.—even while the vehicle is stopped.

As a variation of the above embodiment, the spinners may further includeactivatable electric motors to rotate a portion of the rims while thecar is stopped for extended periods of time, thus allowing therotational image display to run constantly for display purposes such asa car show. Embedded software, related electrical power transmissionhardware and data transmission hardware connected to the wheel displaysystem can be used to monitor motor speed through the rotationaldisplays' position sensor(s) and synchronization circuit(s). Motor speedor power can be adjusted or turned on/off via the controller in thevehicle. Synchronization circuits could monitor the differentialrotational velocities between the rotating wheel ornament and thevehicle wheel thus adjusting motor speed to maintain full visual displaycapabilities throughout a range of vehicle speeds under predeterminedconditions.

As a further variation of the above embodiment, a hub-less spinnerconnected to the outer perimeter or thereabout of the wheel could beutilized. These spinners would be lighter in weight and less expensivethan the present bulky ones. This embodiment could provide an option forsports car/high performance enthusiasts who do not desire traditionalheavy spinners. However, a thin spinner “ring” with a few LED clustersor a continuous circle LED array disposed around the ring would give adriver the ability to have wheel mounted virtual driving lights, brakelights, directional signals and hazard flashers . . . but without thecomplexity of a larger spinner or a more complex wheel display system.This could be simple and utilitarian without the extra hardware orinterfaces for uploading images. This would be more for the sports carenthusiast who wants the virtual signals/brakes/headlights to work whilethe car is stopped.

Referring to FIGS. 12-20, various embodiments of the instant inventionare illustrated as being incorporated into an image display system 110utilizing a rotatable display assembly 111 providing a plurality of axesof rotation of an illuminating assembly 112. Preferably, the axes ofrotation are generally perpendicular to one another. In general, therotational display assembly 111 displays visual information such asimages including, text, numbers, symbols, animations, videos and thelike. It is important to note that the component description below is ageneral way to explain the system and its basic components. Given moderntechnology, many or all of the components described herein could becombined or split in many ways and thus should not be limited to thespecific component descriptions included herein. The general componentsof the system include a computer 114 with a memory 115, at least onecontroller 117 and a means 120 of power delivery to the display assembly111. The rotatable display assembly 111 preferably has the controller117 mounted thereto and includes the illuminating assembly 112 thatmoves and carries a plurality of illuminating elements 121 preferablyproviding discreet light sources.

The computer 114 provides for storage and recall of information fordisplay during operation of the display assembly 111. The informationfrom the computer 114 is preferably wirelessly transferred to thedisplay assembly 111 which includes the controller 117 and theilluminating assembly 112 (FIG. 12). The illuminating assembly 112includes a plurality of illuminating elements 121 operable to present anilluminated image 119 as instructed by the computer 114. The computer114 includes a microprocessor 122 preferably having an informationtransfer connector 124 that allows a consumer, user or salesperson toupload and store information regarding images, videos, logos, text, andthe like for display by accepting various software file formats whichmay include, but should not be limited to: JPEG, BMP, AVI, Quicktime andthe like. The computer 114 may also accept popular hardware methods oftransferring stored digital information which may be provided from CDs,DVDs, various flash memory cards, USB ports, wireless connections,optical connections, IR ports and the like. The computer 114 may providea high level of user selectivity and may include enhancements such astouch screens, digital pads, keyboards and suitable combinationsthereof, all well known in the art, which allow a user to select whichimages or videos should be displayed on the display assembly 111 duringoperation thereof. The display system 110 may also be provided with afixed memory set of information to display preprogrammed information.

The computer 114 electrically communicates with the illuminatingassembly 112 via the controller 117. The controller 117 is preferablypositioned within or is suitably mounted to the illuminating assembly112. The controller 117 includes circuitry suitable to acceptcommunications from the computer wirelessly as for example via radio oroptical transmission, as shown in FIG. 17. Such devices are describedabove. The computer 114 and/or controller 117 know the position of theilluminating assembly 112 with respect to a predetermined or referenceposition within the rotation. Preferably the controller 117 knows therotational position of the illuminating assembly and preferably theposition system is part of the display assembly 111. The controller 117includes a means of synchronization that perceives the rotatableassembly 112 passing by one or more positions during rotation of theilluminating assembly 112. The simplicity, complexity or overalleffectiveness of a position sensing apparatus 130 may vary depending onthe application of the display system 110. The display system 110 ispreferably provided with a position sensors 130 for each axis ofrotation (denoted 130A and 130B for convenience). Examples of positionsensing devices are described above.

The display system 110 may also be provided with one or more a tiltsensing devices 132 to indicate the degree of rotation of the displayassembly 111 from plumb in one or more axes and provide signals to thecontroller 117 to adjust the image display so it remains positioned at apredetermined angle of rotation from horizontal or vertical.

The illuminating assembly 112 can have numerous inherent variations insize, length and resolution (resolution or definition is the number ofactively switchable or addressable illuminating elements 121 per unit ofarea occupied by the illuminating elements 121; the higher numberindicates that a higher quality image can be displayed). Theilluminating assembly 112 can be made utilizing many differentilluminating elements 121 as described above. Because of the rotation ofthe illuminating assembly 112, it provides a displayed image larger thana motionless illuminating assembly.

Referring to FIGS. 12, 17, one means 120 of delivering power to thedisplay assembly 111 and computer 114 is illustrated. The means 120 caninclude one or more batteries 133 or can include normal AC current suchas from a plug-in outlet. A switch 134 is provided and is operable toselectively connect the power means 120 to the other power usingelements and effect their operation. The switch 134 may be any suitableswitch such as a membrane snap contact switch. It may be manuallyoperated as with a user's finger or may be configured to activate anddeactivate upon relative movement of parts of the device 110. However,some applications may be able to use power from so called AC householdcurrent, since mobility may not be an issue. Regardless of the specificconstruction of the controller 117, position sensors 130, illuminatingassembly 112, interfaces, etc. there are many alternative and viableoptions for power delivery means that can provide adequate electricalpower to the display assembly 111 that may be partially present on themoving (rotating) portion of the device 110. Batteries, solar panels,rechargeable systems and hardwired systems are examples of usable powerdelivery means that are well known in the art.

FIG. 12 illustrates, in schematic form, the display system 110. Thedisplay system 110 includes a support base 140, the display assembly 111and a control system 150. The display assembly 111 is mounted to thebase 140 and is operable to effect the display of a selected image 119using a lighted display and the control system 150 is operable tocontrol operation of the display assembly 111.

The base 140 may be of any suitable structure and configuration and isoperable to support at least the display assembly 111 during operation.It may be structured to be fixed or portable. It is preferably adaptedto rest on any suitable surface, for example, a counter, table, desk orthe like. It may be provided with a deck 141 and legs 142.

The display assembly 111 includes the illumination assembly 112 and adrive system 161. The drive system 161 includes at least one motor 162and preferably a pair of motors, 162A, 162B to effect multi-axisrotation of the illumination assembly 112. As shown, the illuminationassembly 112 includes an arm 164 mounted to motor 162A which in turn ismounted to a support 163. The motor 162A has an output shaft with anaxis of rotation which for a direct drive of the illumination assembly112 is the axis of rotation of the illumination assembly 112. The motor162B is coupled to the support 163 to effect rotation of it in an axisof rotation different than the axis of rotation of the illuminationassembly 112. Preferably, the axis of rotation of the support 163 is thesame as that of the output shaft of the motor 162B. The two axes ofrotation of the output shafts of the motors 162A, B are generallyperpendicular. It is to be understood that a third axis of movement canbe provided for the illumination assembly 112 limited only byinterference between the illumination assembly 112 and the support 163.The third axis of movement could be an oscillating movement. The motors162 can be any suitable motor having enough output torque and speed(angular velocity) to adequately drive the illumination assembly 112.

In the illustrate structure, the illuminating elements 121 are mountedto the arm 164. Preferably, the arm 164 includes a plurality of armportions 164A, 164B extending in different directions, and preferably inopposite directions from the axis of rotation of the arm 164. Theillustrated arm 164 is generally straight to provide a generally planarsurface of rotation. It is to be understood that there can be aplurality of arms 164, a plurality of arm portions and that the arm 164can be configured to provide surfaces of rotation of different shapes,for example conical or the like. It is also preferred that there beilluminating elements 121 exposed on various sides 165 of the arm 164 sothey may be seen regardless of the degree of rotation of the support 163about its axis of rotation.

The control system 150 includes the computer 114 and its memory 115 andmicroprocessor 122, position sensors 130A, B for the illuminatingassembly 112 and the support 163 (providing the rotational position ofthe rotating illuminating assembly 112 and the support 163), theconnector 124 and the controller 117. The control system 150 is operableto provide signals to the illumination assembly 112 and control energydistribution to its illuminating elements 121 to effect their on/offconditions and preferably their intensity of illumination atpredetermined locations during movement of the illuminating assembly112. The location of an illuminating element 121 is provided by itsposition on the illuminating assembly 112 and the position sensors 130.

The drive system 161 provides for movement of the illuminating assembly112 preferably within a three dimensional figure or space 167 such as asphere. The computer 114 knows the position of each of the illuminatingelements 121 within the space 167 and can effect selective operation ofthe illuminating elements 121 at predetermined locations or coordinateswithin the space 167 to create a selected image 119. The image 119 maybe a still image or an animated image. The computer 114 can use anysuitable coordinate system, such as Cartesian coordinates, polarcoordinates in space (spherical coordinates), using two angles (Θ,φ) forazimuth and zenith and radial distance (ρ). Conversion between thevarious systems is well known.

FIGS. 12-15 illustrate the basic components of the invention. FIG. 16shows the illuminating assembly 112 sweeping a space 167 in the form ofa sphere.

FIG. 17 shows details of the control system 150. As shown, it includesthe computer 114 with a microprocessor 122 and memory 115. Audio andvideo data inputs 170, 171, respectively, may be connected to thecomputer 114 via the connector 124. Non 3-D video input can be convertedto 3-D by the input device 171 or may be converted by the computer 114.The position sensors 130A, B provide position data to the computer 114preferably substantially continuously to effect timely output of datafor control of the on/off of the illuminating elements 121 of theilluminating assembly 112 as described above. The computer 114 can alsobe operably coupled to the motors 162A, B for control of their operationas for example control of on/off and/or operating speed (angularvelocity). The computer 114 can also provide audio output signals to anamplifier or directly to speakers 175 and the signals may be compressedas at 176. Optionally, the control system may also include externalmemory 177 and user interface(s) 178 operably coupled to the computer114.

FIG. 18 illustrates one embodiment of the invention. It includes adisplay system 110 that is coupled, wirelessly or by wire to a datainput device such as a GPS locator 180. Coordinate information can beinput to the system 110 from the locator 180. The display system 110 canbe programmed to provide a 3-D image of a map or of the globe and thenprovide an indicator 181 to show where the GPS coordinates indicate alocation.

FIG. 19 illustrates the display system 110 and in particular, thedisplay assembly 111 providing a 3-D image 119 of a character 182 andaccompanying text message 183. In the illustrated embodiment, thecharacter is a jack-o-lantern and the text is HAPPY HALLOWEEN in 3-D andcan be in color if desired.

FIG. 20 illustrates an additional embodiment of the present invention.This embodiment can be interactive and receives input from one or moreauxiliary data input sources. As shown, data input 185 can be receivedfrom a radio, digital storage media like a DVD player or televisionstation or from a simulcast of television and radio. Audio output fromthe display system 110 can be output on speakers 175 and video isdisplayed by the display assembly 111. Audio output particulars 188 maybe displayed along with the video. Station identification 189 may alsobe displayed. This data displayed may be foreground, background andseparate from the subject display 190.

Referring to FIGS. 21-30, various embodiments of the instant inventionare illustrated as being incorporated into panel communication devices211 like greeting cards, books, magazines and picture frames having atleast one display panel for carrying a rotatable display assemblydesignated generally 212. In general, the rotational display assemblies212 display visual information such as images, text, numbers, symbols,animations, videos and the like. The general components of the systeminclude a computer device or system 214 with a memory 215 (FIG. 28), acontroller 217 and a means of power delivery 220 to the rotatableassembly 212. The rotatable assembly 212 preferably has the controller217 mounted thereto and includes an illuminating assembly 219 that movesand carries one or more illuminating elements 221.

The computer 214 provides for storage and recall of information fordisplay during operation of the rotatable assembly 212. The informationfrom the computer 214 is preferably wirelessly transferred to therotatable assembly 212 which includes the controller 217 and theilluminating assembly 219 (FIG. 28). The computer 214 includes amicroprocessor device 222 preferably having an information connector 224that allows a consumer, user or salesperson to upload and storeinformation regarding images, videos, logos, text, and the like fordisplay by accepting various software file formats as described above.The computer 214 may provide a high level of user selectivity and mayinclude enhancements as described above, which allow a user to selectwhich images or videos should be displayed on the rotational assembly212 during operation thereof. The communication device 211 may also beprovided with a fixed memory set of information to display preprogrammedinformation.

The computer 214 electrically communicates with the rotatable assemblyvia the controller 217. The controller is preferably positioned withinor is suitably mounted to the display assembly 212. The controller 217includes circuitry suitable to accept communications from the computerwirelessly as for example via radio or optical transmission as describedabove, as shown in FIG. 28. A most preferred embodiment utilizeswireless micro transmitters and receivers, as described above that canat least receive data from the computer 214 as may be utilized toprovide two-way communication between the computer 214 and the receiverportion of the controller 217. The controller 217 also includescircuitry capable of synchronously illuminating the illuminatingelements 221 of the illuminating assembly 219, thus producing a visualoutput. The specific hardware and/or software utilized within thecontroller 217 is described above. The primary job of the controller 217is to receive information regarding the desired display from thecomputer 214 and synchronously energize individual illuminating elements221, clusters or pixels within the illuminating assembly 219 to produceone or more predetermined images or sequence of images. The controller217 properly synchronizes the illuminating elements 222 for illuminationat specific rotational positions within the rotation of the illuminatingassembly 219. The computer 214 and/or controller 217 know the positionof the illuminating assembly 219 with respect to a predetermined orreference position within the rotation. Preferably the controller 217knows the rotational position of the illuminating assembly andpreferably the position system is part of the rotatable assembly 212.The controller 217 includes a means of synchronization that perceivesthe rotatable assembly 212 passing by one or more positions duringrotation of the rotatable assembly 212. The simplicity, complexity oroverall effectiveness of a position sensing apparatus 230 may varydepending on the application of the device 211. Examples of readilyavailable position sensing devices are described above.

The device 211 may also be provided with a tilt sensing device 231 toindicate the degree of rotation of a panel 234 of the device 211 fromplumb and provide a signal to the controller 217 to adjust the imagedisplay so it remains positioned at a predetermined angle of rotationfrom horizontal of vertical irrespective of the angle of rotation of thepanel from a predetermined angle in a plane parallel to the plane ofrotation of the illuminating assembly 219.

The illuminating assembly 219 can have numerous variations in size,length and resolution (resolution or definition is the number ofactively switchable or addressable illuminating elements 221 per unit ofarea occupied by the illuminating elements 221; the higher numberindicates that a higher quality image can be displayed). Theilluminating assembly 219 can be made utilizing many differentilluminating elements 221 as described above.

Referring to FIG. 28, one means 220 of delivering power to the rotatingassembly 212 is illustrated. The means 220 can include one or morebatteries 232. A switch 234 is provided and is operable to selectivelyconnect the power means 220 to the other power using elements and effecttheir operation. The switch 234 may be any suitable switch such as amembrane snap contact switch. It may be manually operated as with auser's finger or may be configured to activate and deactivate uponrelative movement of parts of the device 211 as for example, when agreeting card is opened and closed. However, some applications may beable to use power from household current, like the picture frame shownin FIG. 30 since mobility may not be an issue. Regardless of thespecific construction of the controller 217, position sensor 230,illuminating assembly 219, interfaces, etc. there are many alternativeand viable options for power delivery means that can provide adequateelectrical power to the rotatable assembly 212 that may be partiallypresent on the moving (rotating) portion of the system. Batteries, solarpanels, rechargeable systems and hardwired systems are examples ofusable power delivery means that are well known in the art.

FIG. 21 shows one embodiment of the invention. The device 211 is in theform of a greeting card 240 having a front panel 241 and a back panel242 connected together along a hinge fold line 243. The illustratedpanels 241, 242 are shown as rectangular and planar and it is to beunderstood that any shape, such as round or oval, or contour may beutilized so long as they do not interfere with operation of therotatable assembly 212. As shown in FIGS. 21, 28, the front panel 241carries the rotation assembly 212 including the illumination assembly219. The axis of rotation of the illumination assembly 219 is locatedwithin a non-marginal or interior portion of a panel. The rotationassembly 212 includes a motor 244 mounted to the panel 241. Theillustrated embodiment has the computer 214, the power means 220, switch234 and connector 224 mounted thereto. The power means 220 is connectedto the motor 244, controller 217 and position sensor 230 by conductors246. Information from the computer 14 can be transmitted to thecontroller 217 wirelessly as described above. The device 211 may alsoinclude a tilt sensor 248 that is operable to provide a signal to thecomputer 214 indicating a degree of tilt or rotation of one of the panelcarrying the rotatable assembly 212 in a plane generally perpendicularto the axis of rotation of the illuminating assembly 219. More than onetilt sensor 248 may be provided when a plurality of illuminatingassemblies 219 are utilized one for each assembly. The tilt sensor 248and computer 214 are operable to adjust the output of the controller 217to ensure proper orientation of a displayed image 249 irrespective ofthe rotational position of the panel supporting an illuminating assembly219.

It is to be understood that the illuminating assembly 219 may beprovided with a transparent cover (not shown), such as a vacuum formeddish to prevent inadvertent contact with the illuminating assembly.

FIG. 22 illustrates an additional embodiment of the present invention.It is similar to the structure of FIGS. 21, 28, but includes a rotatableassembly 212 (not shown in FIG. 22) with each being mounted on arespective panel 241, 242 with each assembly 212 preferably beingconnected to the computer 214 and having its own position sensor 230 andcontroller 217 (not shown in FIG. 22). It will display an image 249 oneach of the panels 241, 242.

FIG. 26 illustrates two forms of illumination assembly 219. Illuminationassembly 219A has an arm 250 utilizing two arm portions 250A and 250B,each carrying illuminating elements 221. The use of two arm portions250A, 250B provides for balance during rotation. It is to be understoodthat any suitable number of arms or arm portions can be used in arotatable assembly 212. In the illustrated structure, the arm 250 isconfigured to rotate in a plane, however, it is to be understood that asurface of rotation can be conical, either convex or concave as viewedby a user by having one or more arms 250 mounted to the motor shaft atan orientation other than perpendicular to the axis of rotation. It isalso to be understood, and as seen in phantom in FIG. 26, that arms250A, B, C, D may be positioned to provide a plurality of surfaces ofrotation to provide a three dimensional (3-D) effect in the displayedimage(s). A second illumination assembly 219B is shown in FIG. 26. Itutilizes an arm portion 250E extending in only one direction from theaxis of rotation. A counterweight 252 may be provided to balance theillumination assembly 219B during rotation. As in the above describedarm assembly, second arm portion 250F may be provided to create a secondimage displaying surface of rotation.

FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of the invention utilizing theillumination assembly 219A of FIG. 26 on one panel of a greeting card240.

FIGS. 24, 25 illustrate an embodiment of the invention similar to thatshown in FIGS. 21, 28, but utilizes a plurality of illuminatingassemblies 219 and has the illuminating assemblies mounted adjacent anedge or in an edge margin portion of a respective panel 241, 242 such asside edge margins 255, 256 respectively.

FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that provides animage surface of rotation 260 generally parallel to the axis of rotationof the illuminating assembly 219. This can be accomplished by havingilluminating elements 221 on an end portion 261 of an arm 250. It is tobe understood that illuminating elements 221 may also be provided on thearm 250 as seen in FIG. 26 to simultaneously or selectively provide aplurality of image surfaces of rotation 260, 262.

FIG. 29 illustrates another embodiment of the invention utilized in abook 264. The book 264 is illustrated as a popup book having a structure265 that can be elevated manually after opening the book orautomatically pop up when exposing a page 266 for viewing. In thisembodiment, the popup structure 265 has one or more rotatable assemblies212 mounted thereto. The book 264 is also provided with a computer 214(not shown) and other electrical components as described above to effectdisplay one or more images 249. The rotatable assembly 212 can beactivated when the popup structure 265 is in an up position. Therotatable assembly 212 can then provide an image 249 as described above.It is to be understood that the popup structure 265 can be part ofeither the front or back covers 267, 268 respectively. For purposes ofthis invention, the covers 267, 268 and the pages 266 can be consideredpanels as described above.

FIG. 30 illustrates still another embodiment of the present invention.This embodiment is in the form of a photograph display structure 270,like a picture frame which may or may not have an actual frame. Thestructure 270 includes a display panel 271 that can have the side edgeportions 272 surrounded at least partially by a frame structure 273.Means may be provided for holding the structure 270 in a generallyupright position if desired. Such means may include a hinged supportmember 275, a hook (not shown) or a wire (not shown) to cooperate with awall hook or the like. The structure 270 is provided with a rotatableassembly 212 and associated computer 214 and other electrical componentsas described above to effect display of an image.

All patents and publications mentioned in this specification areindicative of the levels of those skilled in the art to which theinvention pertains. All patents and publications are herein incorporatedby reference to the same extent as if each individual publication wasspecifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

It is to be understood that while certain forms of the invention isillustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangementherein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in theart that various changes may be made without departing from the scope ofthe invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to whatis shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figuresincluded herein.

One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the presentinvention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain theends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. Theembodiments, methods, procedures and techniques described herein arepresently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended tobe exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changestherein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which areencompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by thescope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been describedin connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should beunderstood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited tosuch specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of thedescribed modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious tothose skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A rotational display system including: a computer, said computer including a memory for storage and recall of data representing at least one visual image; a controller in wireless communication with the computer and operable to receive at least some of said data; a rotatable assembly for displaying an image represented by at least a portion of the data transferred from said computer to the controller, said rotatable assembly including an illuminating assembly, said illuminating assembly being operably connected to said controller, said illuminating assembly including at least one illuminating element, said rotatable assembly including drive means operably coupled to the illuminating assembly to effect rotation thereof about a first axis of rotation; a support, said rotatable assembly being mounted to said support; a power delivery means for providing power to said rotatable assembly; and wherein an image represented by at least some of the data may be displayed during rotation of the illuminating assembly, said computer being programmed to orient a displayed image relative to a predetermined plane.
 2. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein said computer including software constructed and arranged to allow an operator to import, manipulate, store and selectively display an image of an operator's choice with the illuminating assembly.
 3. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein said computer including hardware constructed and arranged to allow an operator to import, manipulate, store and selectively display an image of an operator's choice with the illuminating assembly.
 4. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein said controller being constructed and arranged to control illumination of said at least one illuminating element.
 5. The rotational display system of claim 4 wherein said illuminating assembly including a plurality of illuminating elements, wherein each of said illuminating elements being individually controllable for illumination by said controller.
 6. The rotational display system of claim 5 wherein said illuminating elements extending across said first axis of rotation, whereby a displayed image can extend across said axis of rotation.
 7. The rotational display system of claim 5 wherein said illuminating assembly being constructed and arranged to display text across a linear bottom line.
 8. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein said rotatable assembly being constructed and arranged to display planar images.
 9. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein said rotatable assembly being constructed and arranged to display cylindrical images.
 10. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein said rotatable assembly being constructed and arranged to display three dimensional images.
 11. The rotational display system of claim 4 wherein said rotatable assembly including multiple illuminating assemblies that share a common axis of rotation, wherein each of said illuminating assemblies being positioned at different angles with respect to said axis of rotation, wherein said controller is constructed and arranged to synchronize images generated by said illuminating assembly in a predetermined sequence to provide a three dimensional image.
 12. The rotational display system of claim 4 wherein there being a plurality of said illuminating elements and said controller including circuitry constructed and arranged to synchronously illuminate the illuminating elements.
 13. The rotational display system of claim 4 including a means of synchronization and wherein said means for synchronization is constructed and arranged to determine the relative position of said illuminating assembly with respect to a fixed position during rotation thereof.
 14. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein said rotational display system being constructed and arranged to display streaming video.
 15. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein the drive means operable to effect simultaneous rotation of the illuminating assembly about at least two axes of rotation.
 16. The rotational display system of claim 15 wherein the drive means including at least two motors associated with the illuminating assembly to effect the rotation of the illuminating assembly about the at least two axes of rotation to create a 3-D image.
 17. The rotational display system of claim 1 wherein the support including a display panel.
 18. The rotational display system of claim 17 wherein the support including a greeting card with a said display panel.
 19. The rotational display system of claim 17 wherein the support including a book with a said display panel.
 20. A display system operable for displaying an illuminated image in 3-D, the system comprising: a base; a display assembly mounted to the base and including at least one illuminating assembly having a plurality of illuminating elements and a drive assembly operably associated with the illuminating assembly and operable to simultaneously rotate the illuminating assembly about at least two axes of rotation, said drive assembly including at least one motor and the illumination assembly having a plurality of discrete light sources thereon and movable therewith; a control system including a rotation position sensor operably associated with at least one of the motor and the illumination assembly and operable to provide a rotation position signal for the illumination assembly in at least one of the axes of rotation and including a controller operably coupled to a computer device having a memory device, said controller being connected to the illumination assembly and the position sensor and operable to receive the rotation position signal and selectively activate and deactivate the lights sources in accordance with programmed instructions in the memory device during movement of at least a portion of the illumination assembly by the motor, said computer device being programmed to illuminate selected said light sources at preselected rotational positions of the light sources and provide at least one visual image utilizing persistence of vision over an area greater than that covered by a motionless said illumination assembly; a power source connected to the motor, illumination assembly and control system; and a switch device connected to the power source and operable to selectively energize the motor, control system and illumination assembly.
 21. The display system of claim 20 wherein the illumination assembly including an arm, said arm having a plurality of spaced apart said light sources along the arm.
 22. The display system of claim 21 wherein the light sources including LED's.
 23. The display system of claim 21 wherein the light sources being operable to provide an output of a plurality of different colors.
 24. The display system of claim 21 wherein the visual image being substantially immovable relative to the display device during display of the image.
 25. The display system of claim 21 wherein there being a plurality of said arms each extending in a different direction from a center of rotation of the illuminating assembly.
 26. The display system of claim 21 wherein the arm being movable independently about two axes of rotation.
 27. The display system of claim 26 wherein a displayed image lying in a sphere.
 28. The display system of claim 20 wherein the display system being coupled to an audio system.
 29. The display system of claim 20 wherein the computer having an input connector to permit image data input by a user of the device.
 30. The display system of claim 20 wherein the computer having image data prior to receipt by a user.
 31. The display system of claim 20 wherein the computer having an input connector to permit inputting image data at a point of sale.
 32. The display system of claim 20 wherein the illumination assembly being coupled to a first motor having a first output shaft oriented for rotation about a first axis of rotation and carried by a support and the support being coupled to a second motor having a second output shaft oriented for rotating the support about a second axis of rotation that is different from the first axis of rotation.
 33. The display system of claim 32 wherein the first and second axes of rotation being generally normal to one another.
 34. The display system of claim 33 wherein a displayed image lying in a sphere.
 35. The display system of claim 34 wherein the illumination assembly including an arm, said arm having a plurality of spaced apart said light sources along the arm.
 36. The display system of claim 35 wherein the arm having a plurality of arm portions extending in different directions from the axis of rotation of the arm.
 37. The display system of claim 36 wherein at least one of the arm portions being generally perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the arm. 